Summer Transfer Window Heats Up
The summer transfer window is heating up, with several Premier League clubs making headlines with their interest in key players. Newcastle United, Manchester United, and Arsenal are reportedly in a fierce competition to acquire Bryan Mbeumo, the Brentford forward who had an impressive 2024-25 season, contributing 20 goals and seven assists.
Intense Competition for Mbeumo
The 25-year-old’s name has emerged frequently in transfer discussions, with Manchester United being seen as a potential destination. However, Newcastle’s manager, Eddie Howe, is keenly observing the player’s situation, while Arsenal’s coach Mikel Arteta aims to enhance his attacking options for the upcoming season.
Although Arsenal appears to be focusing on Athletic Club winger Nico Williams as a priority, it seems that Newcastle may pose the most significant challenge to Manchester United for Mbeumo’s signature. Both clubs must navigate the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules, meaning they may need to offload players to fund new signings.
Chelsea’s Defensive Moves
In another transfer story, Chelsea is seeking to bring Marc Guéhi back to Stamford Bridge from Crystal Palace. The 24-year-old defender, who recently won the FA Cup with Palace, is also on Newcastle’s radar. Nevertheless, Guéhi is reportedly inclined to remain in London.
Chelsea is also exploring options for securing Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite, but Manchester City is currently in a favorable position to acquire the 22-year-old due to their willingness to include John Stones in negotiations. Having risen through Chelsea’s youth ranks, Guéhi may be enticed by the prospect of Champions League football, especially with the FIFA World Cup approaching next summer.
Liverpool’s Pursuit of Wirtz Falters
Meanwhile, Liverpool’s pursuit of Florian Wirtz, the Bayer Leverkusen star, has encountered obstacles. The German club is dissatisfied with Liverpool’s offers, which include rejections of bids at €100 million and €130 million, and they are reportedly holding out for a staggering €150 million.
Liverpool may need to sweeten the deal by including a player, with Harvey Elliott being mentioned as a possible makeweight. In other news, goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher is set to finalize his transfer to Brentford, indicating that he will not be part of any package to acquire Wirtz.
Chelsea’s Striker Deal
On the Chelsea front, a move is reportedly in the works for striker Liam Delap, who has reached an agreement on personal terms as he approaches the second phase of his medical examination. The 22-year-old, currently with Ipswich Town, is anticipated to sign a six-year contract, with the fee around £30 million, pending medical clearance. Chelsea is also targeting Hugo Ekitike of Eintracht Frankfurt, reportedly ahead of Liverpool in the competition for the young French international.
Partey on Barcelona’s Radar
Finally, Barcelona is eyeing a free transfer for Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey, who has yet to secure a contract extension despite Arsenal’s interest in retaining him. With his contract expiring at the end of June, discussions with Barcelona representatives are underway, as their coach Hansi Flick believes Partey could be an ideal and economically viable addition to the team as they look to strengthen their squad.
